A positive credit history and a strong credit score will help you negotiate the best terms on your next loan. Here are three tips related to the world of credit reporting.

Claim your FREE credit report

You are entitled to a free copy of your report from all three credit agencies (Equifax, Experian, and Transunion), which will help you understand how healthy your credit is and what you need to do to improve it. Under Federal law, you can obtain a free copy from each once every 12 months. Download them at www.annualcreditreport.com.

Also, several states, including Colorado, allow you to get one additional free report per year. To claim them, go directly to each company’s website. I’ll save you the trouble of looking them up: www.Equifax.com, www.Experian.com, and www.TransUnion.com.

Review the reports closely—you’d be surprised how many errors there can be. Be sure to follow up with creditors if you see a mistake. Repeat every six months!

It’s NOT as easy to get your credit score

Unfortunately, you don’t have the same legal right to get your credit score. However, lenders are required to mail you your credit score for free if you get turned down on a credit application or receive a higher interest rate because of your financial circumstances.

You CAN stop unwanted credit card offers

Under Federal law, you can prohibit the credit agencies from selling your information to lenders who, for example, mail you preapproved offers for credit cards. “Opt out” for free by contacting the credit bureaus individually or by calling (888) 567-8688 to cover all 3 with one call.

If you change your mind, you can always opt back in and start getting preapproved credit card offers in the mail again. Hey, it could happen!